Dog-Friendly San Francisco in 48 hours

Having gone to school in the Bay Area, I’m no stranger to the streets of San Francisco, but this trip was different – I was traveling with my dog, Marshall.

In line for his TSA pat down

I’d never really noticed, but San Francisco is very dog friendly. Unlike New York, most place let you dine outdoors with your dog. Sounds simple enough, but it’s not unusual for restaurants in NYC to refuse patrons with dogs, even when it comes to outdoor seating. Here are some awesome dog-friendly activities you and your four-legged friend can get done in the SF area in 48 hours!

Friday

Palace of Fine Arts 3:00 PM
This picturesque location is frequently the backdrop for many films and wedding photos, but is also a great location to lounge around and enjoy a sunny day in San Francisco. A few benches and plenty of grass lends itself for a great spot to lay back and enjoy the architecture.

Palace of Fine Arts

Views of the Golden Gate Bridge5:00 PMThe famous bridge can be viewed from many points in the city, but when walking over from the Palace of Fine Arts, you’ll see plenty of view points to stop and take photos. Some of our favorite spots include Battery East Vista and Fort Point, both of which are dog friendly.

Battery East Vista

The Slanted Door
8:00pm

This popular Vietnamese spot, located in the Ferry Building, serves up delicious eats, and boasts a stunning view of the Bay Bridge. If that wasn’t enough, the restaurant also has outdoor seating, and dogs are welcome! Be sure to make a reservation in advance and request seats outside to ensure you can enjoy your meal with your pup.Ferry Building, 1 Ferry Building #3, San Francisco, CA 94111
(415) 861-8032

Saturday

In-N-Out11:00 AMLocated just about everywhere in California, you may struggle to find outdoor seating due to the popularity of this chain, but if you manage to snag a spot, you and your pup will will be able to enjoy one of the best fast food burgers out there.www.in-n-out.com/locations for locations

Note: This pup did not eat all this food

St. Supery Estate Vineyards and Winery
1:00 PMLocated in Napa Valley, this quaint vineyard not only churns out a tasty bottle of moscato, but also welcomes your four-legged friend. The winery offers an indoor tasting room and outdoor seating – both of which allow pets. Wine tastings range $25-40 per person. Reservations are accepted, though not required. Special events or “experiences” are available, however reservations are required.

Treasure Island6pmIf you drive back into San Francisco from Napa from the East Bay, you’ll come in on the Bay Bridge, which has an exit on Treasure Island. The once-Naval Base is now a historic landmark with gorgeous views of the city.

Treasure Island has a great view of the San Francisco skyline

Sotto Mare8:00PMThis North Beach staple whips up amazing seafood dishes 6 days a week (closed on Sundays!). Be sure to make a reservation, especially if you’re bringing your pup to make sure you can snag a seat outside. Hat tip to food connoisseur, @popeyethefoodie for this great find.552 Green St, San Francisco, CA 94133
(415) 398-3181 for reservationswww.sottomaresf.com

Philz Coffee
9:00 AMThis San Francisco coffee house chain brews some fantastic coffee, and most spots offer outdoor seating for you and your dog. Tip: the menu can be intimidating for non-regulars, but the baristas are friendly and happy to help! Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations. With several locations in the Bay Area, Philz Coffee is an easy spot to add to your itinerary.http://www.philzcoffee.com/ for locations

Mission Dolores Park
12:00 PMFurther away from most tourist hot spots, this laid-back park is a great way to spend a sunny day relaxing with your pup. You’ll find plenty of other furry friends there, since there are two designated Dog Play Areas ins the park where pups can roam off-leash. Bring snacks, drinks, and a picnic blanket and enjoy the afternoon!

Map of Mission Dolores Park

Bonus – Over the Moon Creamery

Just across the street at the Embarcadero Center Shop is the Financial District outpost of Over the Moon Creamery. Pups aren’t specifically allowed inside, but since the tiny scoop shop is located in a covered outdoor plaza, you can enjoy your treat while taking a break with your dog.

Lodging

Hotel Nikko San FranciscoThough you can’t bring your dog to the hotel’s restaurants, this property boasts their own COO (Canine Operating Officer), who’s available for on-site puppy play dates. Add this to their dog private dog run and dog-sized cable car display in the lobby, and you’ve found just about the most dog friendly hotel in the city. See our review on our experience here.222 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94102
http://www.hotelnikkosf.com/

Hotel Nikko San Francisco dog run

W San FranciscoThe pet-friendly trendy chain is situated in the SoMa area, easily walkable to some tourist spots and great restaurants. Don’t forget to check out the pet menu in the room service booklet for some in-room dining for your pup. See our review on our experience here.

W San Francisco welcome mat

We’re just scratching the surface, of course – there is so much more to the city by the bay. Have you traveled to the Bay Area with you dog? What are your favorite spots? Drop us a line in the comments.

Don’t forget to check out our travel reviews from our SF trip, with information on traveling with your dog. See below for links!